Anxiety is a common struggle that many people face today. It can range from general worrying to full-blown panic attacks. According to statistics, anxiety disorders affect around 40 million American adults each year. With anxiety on the rise, many are searching for answers on how to find peace and overcome fear. The Bible has a lot to say about anxiety, worry, and fear. By understanding the biblical perspective, we can find hope and help for overcoming anxiety. God tells us not to be anxious One of the most direct things the Bible says about anxiety is to simply not do…
Author: Nicole Sands
In the Bible, hair is sometimes portrayed as having spiritual significance or power. References to holy or magic hair in the Bible are sparse, but a few passages mention hair in a supernatural context. Samson’s Hair One of the most well-known examples involves the Old Testament character Samson. Samson was an Israelite judge granted superhuman strength by God. However, the source of his strength was his uncut hair. We read in Judges 16:17 that “if my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become weak and be like any other man.” Delilah, a Philistine woman who…
How Should a Christian View Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by obsessive, intrusive thoughts that produce anxiety (obsessions), which are relieved through repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). For the Christian, OCD can present unique challenges in understanding the relationship between spiritual struggles and mental health issues. However, by applying biblical principles of renewing the mind, finding freedom in Christ, and relying on the Holy Spirit, believers can experience hope and healing. What is OCD? OCD is an anxiety disorder that affects 2-3% of people at some point in their lives. The…
The concept of a sanctuary is an important one in the Bible. A sanctuary is a sacred, holy place set apart for God. It is a place where God’s presence dwells and where people can connect with Him. The Bible describes several key features that make a space a true sanctuary. Set Apart and Dedicated to God A sanctuary is first and foremost a place that has been specifically set apart and dedicated to God. In the Old Testament, God commanded the Israelites to build a tabernacle as a sanctuary where He would meet with them (Exodus 25:8). This tabernacle…
Angelology is the study of angels. It seeks to understand who angels are, what they do, and how they interact with God and humans according to the Bible. Here is an overview of key biblical teachings about angels: The Nature and Origins of Angels Angels are created spiritual beings (Psalm 148:2, 5; Colossians 1:16). They were created by God before the creation of the world (Job 38:4-7). Angels were created holy, without sin, and in the image of God (Matthew 18:10). They have intellect, emotions, and will (Luke 15:10; 1 Peter 1:12). Angels are not little gods. They are servants…
Jesus’ friendship with sinners is a defining aspect of his ministry and a demonstration of God’s love for humanity. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus seeks out those considered ‘unclean’ or immoral by the religious establishment of the day. By eating with them, accepting them, and calling them to repentance, Jesus shows that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace and mercy. Several key passages in the Gospels highlight Jesus’ friendships with sinners: Jesus eats with tax collectors and sinners – Mark 2:13-17 After calling Levi (Matthew) to be his disciple, Jesus attends a dinner at Levi’s house along with…
Spiritism is the set of beliefs and practices based on the teachings of Allan Kardec’s The Spirits’ Book, published in 1857. Spiritism teaches that humans are essentially immortal spirits that temporarily inhabit physical bodies for several necessary incarnations to attain moral and intellectual improvement. It also affirms the existence of God, placing an emphasis on moral values and love as the most important aspects of spiritual evolution. Main Beliefs of Spiritism Some of the core beliefs of Spiritism include: God exists as the Supreme Intelligence and Primary Cause of all things. Spirits are immortal – they preexist before birth into…
Jacob’s well is an important location mentioned in the Bible, particularly in John 4:5-42. This passage records a conversation between Jesus and a Samaritan woman he met at Jacob’s well in the town of Sychar. The conversation is significant for several reasons: Location of the Well Jacob’s well was located in the town of Sychar in Samaria near the plot of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph (John 4:5). This well was likely named after the patriarch Jacob from the book of Genesis. When Jacob’s descendants returned to this area after the Exodus, the well already existed…
Determining the exact percentage of Christians compared to non-Christians in the world is challenging for several reasons: There is no definitive global census on religious affiliation. Population data is estimates based on surveys, self-reporting, and demographic analysis. Definitions of “Christian” vary widely. Some organizations only count baptized, practicing members of churches. Others use a broader definition of anyone identifying as Christian. Religious affiliation is fluid and changes over time. Conversion, switching religions, secularization, and population growth ensure the percentages are moving targets. Persecution and legal restrictions in some countries lead believers to hide their faith, skewing data. Cultural Christianity clouds…
The Bible has much to say about the intellect and how Christians should view and use their minds. Here is an overview of the key biblical principles regarding the intellect: The intellect is a gift from God According to the Bible, our ability to think, reason, and understand comes directly from God. “The Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6). Our minds and intellect are incredibly complex gifts that reflect the nature of our Creator. We should be thankful for this gift and seek to steward it well. The intellect is limited without God’s revelation…